Maritime Rescue Exercise - 552 Squadron "Zangões"

On June 27, during the Blue Flag raising ceremony at Praia da Vagueira (Vagos), a maritime rescue exercise was held in which the 552 Squadron - “Zangões” played a key role. The exercise, coordinated by the Aveiro Port Authority and involving the Aveiro Lifeguard Station and members of the “SeaWatch” Project, simulated the situation of a shipwrecked person missing at sea.

The Zangões' AW119 Koala helicopter was activated for the rescue, recovering the fictitious victim and transporting him to the beach, where lifeguards stabilized him before transferring him to the fire department ambulance. This exercise, which involved around 20 personnel and was witnessed by more than 300 people, reinforced cooperation between the Air Force, the Maritime Authority, and civil protection services, demonstrating readiness and effectiveness in responding to maritime emergencies.